Characters
This character is a silverback gorilla and the main protagonist of the story
Ivan
The place where Ivan and the other animals live.
The Big Top Mall
Ivan uses these to create his art
What are crayons and finger paints?
The primary theme illustrated by Ivan's captivity and his memories of the wild
What is freedom vs. captivity?
I just thought it was a beautiful drawing. Julia said, ‘It’s not just a drawing.’”
Who is Ivan
Ivan's best friend, a wise and elderly elephant.
Stella
The room where Ivan spends most of his time
What is his Domain
The promise Stella makes Ivan give about Ruby.
What is to take care of her
This theme is highlighted through the relationship between Ivan, Stella, and Ruby.
What is friendship / Community
"Humans waste words. They toss them like banana peels and leave them to rot."
Who is Ivan?
This character is a stray dog who becomes Ivan's friend.
Bob
Off what Exit is the Big Top Mall Located?
What is Exit 8
The type of show that Mack runs at the Big Top Mall
Animal Exhibit or Circus
Ivan's artistic expression represents this theme
What is creativity /expression
"Elephants are people, but not people. They’re elephants."
Who is Stella?
A young elephant who arrives at the Big Top Mall and becomes friends with Ivan
Ruby
Where is Ivan from?
The Jungle
Ivan’s nickname given by Julia, her father, and the Billboard advertising the exhibit
What is the One and Only Ivan
This theme is depicted through the human characters' varying attitudes toward the animals
What is compassion?
"I was born in a place humans call central Africa, in a dense rain forest so beautiful, no crayons could ever do it justice."
Who is Ivan?
The artist who takes care of Ivan and spends lots of time at the mall.
Julia
Where was Ruby's previous home (just before the mall)
What is a circus out west
The thing Ivan starts to remember about his past as he spends more time with Ruby.
What is his family and the jungle?
Ivan's desire to help Ruby find a better life demonstrates this theme
What is hope?
"Change is scary for all of us."
Who is Julia?